Saudi Arabia Eyes Resuming Lebanese Imports and Lifting Travel Ban
Saudi Arabia is reviewing the possibility of resuming imports from Lebanon and lifting a travel ban on its citizens. This development follows a meeting between Lebanese President Aoun and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh. The two countries agreed to address barriers to trade and discussed Israeli military presence in Lebanon.
Saudi Arabia is contemplating the resumption of imports from Lebanon and the lifting of a travel ban for its nationals visiting the country. This decision follows a joint statement released after Lebanese President Joseph Aoun’s meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh. This trip marks President Aoun’s first international visit since assuming office in January.
Both parties have agreed to examine the barriers preventing the restoration of Lebanese exports to Saudi Arabia and the necessary steps to facilitate Saudi citizens’ travel. In 2021, Saudi Arabia suspended Lebanese agricultural imports citing drug smuggling issues amid rising tensions related to the influence of the Iran-backed group Hezbollah.
Saudi Arabia was the leading market for Lebanese agricultural products, accounting for 22.1 percent of Lebanon’s exports in 2019. Since the ban was imposed, Saudi nationals have required government authorization to travel to Lebanon. During the meeting, the two nations also discussed the Israeli military’s withdrawal from Lebanese territory, emphasizing the importance of compliance with the November ceasefire arrangement.
President Aoun’s visit to Saudi Arabia is notable as it is the first by a Lebanese head of state in eight years. In a recent interview with Asharq al-Awsat, he indicated intentions to revive military aid to Lebanon, which was halted in 2016 due to concerns regarding Hezbollah’s influence on the Lebanese military.
The discussions between Saudi Arabia and Lebanon signal a potential improvement in bilateral relations, particularly in trade and travel. President Aoun’s visit and the emphasis on Israeli withdrawal from Lebanon underscore critical geopolitical issues. Renewed cooperation, especially in agriculture and military aid, suggests both nations are seeking to strengthen ties following years of estrangement.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
